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Delhi
KR

Kriteesh

4w

I want to go for one of the Indian companies. My preferences are high safety, good mileage, low maintenance, strong road presence, high ground clearance, big boot space, and good drivability. My budget is ₹23 lakh on-road. I am okay with not having hi-tech features or a sunroof. I am currently looking at the Harrier, Safari, XUV7XO, and now the Sierra as well. I am open to other options as well. My daily drive is around 55 km, so I am open to diesel as well, and I am looking for very long-term ownership.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
4w
Most cars from India's two big brands - Tata and Mahindra - have scored well in Bharat NCAP or Global NCAP crash tests, and in your price range, all come equipped with a strong set of safety features. The SUVs from these brands are also pretty good on boot space, road presence and ground clearance, so you can't go wrong with any on those counts as well.
Given your daily usage of 55km, a diesel car is beneficial for low running costs, but not essential either. However, as all your shortlisted cars do offer a diesel option, it's worthwhile to choose one of them; they all offer good driveability too. When it comes to fuel efficiency or mileage, the Tata Sierra comes out on top of the others, as it uses a smaller and more efficient 1.5-litre engine, compared to the others, which use 2.0 or 2.2-litre diesels that are nowhere near as efficient.
On top of that, the Sierra feels like the newest and freshest of the lot, though the recently updated Mahindra XUV 7XO is not far behind. As for maintenance, neither brand has a stellar track record for service quality, but the costs are reasonable and competitive.
Tata Sierra

Tata Sierra

Was this helpful? Ask a follow-up

KR

Kriteesh

4w

Would you suggest looking at any other car apart from the Indian companies, if I need a tension-free long-term ownership?

BR

Brezza

4w

Go for xuv 7xO tata is trash you will regret buying it

KR

Kriteesh

3w

Can you please expand on the context?

Latest questions people are discussing

NA

Nano

4d

I am confused between the Mahindra XUV 7XO AX5 and Mahindra XUV 7XO AX7 variants, as I prefer practicality over extra features. Alternatively, should I consider waiting for the Tata Sierra?

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
19h

If you don't mind the additional spend, we'd recommend the Mahindra XUV 7XO in AX7 trim. Elements like its larger 18-inch alloy wheels and leatherette upholstery add greatly to the look and feel of things. While auto climate control, a 540-degree camera and front parking sensors are features you will appreciate every day. The Tata Sierra is not a like-for-like alternative to the Mahindra 7XO. The 7XO is larger, more powerful and also offers three rows of seating.Further, the 7XO is slightly pricier, too. Within Tata's range, the Tata Safari is an alternative to the 7XO.

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NA

Nano

2d

I am looking for an upgrade. Does it make sense to buy the 3XO, coming from a Honda City? Please suggest. (Also open to other options)

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
1d

If an upgrade necessarily means a larger car for you, the Mahindra 3XO won't be the right move after a Honda City. You'd be best served by midsized SUVs, which measure between 4.3 and 4.5m. Of the current crop of mid-sized SUVs, the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta and Tata Sierra are the best-rounded. The new-gen Renault Duster that launches on March 17 also has promise.If vehicle size isn't a dealbreaker, the Mahindra XUV 3XO is a good pick. It's got powerful petrol engines, feels solid, and ride and handling are also impressive. The interior is also spacious for what is a compact SUV, and higher-spec versions pack in loads of equipment too. In fact, a fully-loaded 3XO is better equipped than a fully-loaded City.Within the compact SUV segment, you could also consider the Hyundai Venue, which is a well-rounded package.

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PK

Pramod Kumar

2d

I am planning to upgrade from Baleno to either the Sierra, Thar Roxx or 7XO. My driving would be 70% city and 30% highway. Please advise me on the best pick.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
1d

The Tata Sierra is the most practical option for you. It has a spacious cabin, a comfortable ride, and a punchy petrol engine. What helps its case in the city, especially compared to the other two, is the compact dimensions that make it easy to park and manage in traffic. The turbo-petrol engine with the DCT would be our recommendation as the naturally aspirated version lacks performance. The automatic gearbox is smooth, the engine is refined, and the ride comfort is excellent. It is also fresh on the inside with the latest tech and features.However, if you have a big family and a third row is a must, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is a good option. It has a strong and refined petrol engine, and it also has a comfy ride. But you will have to manage its size in the city, and it will not be as easy as the Sierra.The Mahindra Thar Roxx is not as comfortable as the Tata Sierra or the XUV 7XO. It has a lot of character in its design, but lacks the plush ride of the Sierra and the premiumness of the 7XO. If you don't venture off the tarmac or don't do much off-roading, best to avoid the Roxx. The Sierra would be a good fit overall.

VehicleTata Sierra
VehicleMahindra XUV 7XO
VehicleMahindra Thar Roxx

Posted on: 11 Feb 2026